If you’ve been feeling a little uneasy about what’s next, you’re not alone. 2024 has been a whirlwind of change—business exits, mergers, leadership shifts, and career pivots. I’m hearing from so many people in my network who are in the same boat—successful, driven, but suddenly unsure about where to go next.

This blog is for you if you’ve hit a crossroads and the next step isn’t as clear as it used to be. We’re going to talk about navigating uncertainty and making decisions when everything feels… well, foggy.

I’ve been there, I’ve worked with clients who’ve been there, and together, we’ll unpack what it takes to keep moving forward when there’s no defined path ahead. Let’s dive in.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Uncertainty

Let’s get real for a second: uncertainty is uncomfortable. You’ve built a career, maybe even a business, around knowing what to do, being decisive, and executing a vision. And now, post-exit or post-transition, you might feel like that certainty is slipping away.

I can’t tell you how many conversations I’ve had with leaders and entrepreneurs who’ve hit that high point—exiting a company, leaving a C-suite role, or stepping out of the spotlight—and suddenly, it’s like: What now?

I’ve worked with many who described this phase as an emotional rollercoaster. On one hand, there’s freedom and excitement for the unknown; on the other hand, there’s this nagging anxiety of, “Am I still relevant?” and “What if I make the wrong move?” It’s that paradox of choice—too many options, but none of them feel quite right just yet.

Why Uncertainty Is Actually a Sign of Growth

Here’s a reframe that might help: Uncertainty isn’t a sign that you’re lost. It’s a sign that you’re growing. When we’re stepping into something new—whether it’s a new business venture, a different career, or even a shift in focus—and it’s meant to be uncomfortable.

Think about it: when was the last time you felt 100% certain and still challenged? Probably never. Certainty often means we’re operating within the bounds of what we already know. But if you’re uncertain, it means you’re pushing beyond that. That’s where growth happens.

But that doesn’t mean you sit back and just wait for clarity to magically appear, right? You’ve got to take action, and that’s what I want to focus on today—how to make decisions when you don’t have all the answers.

1. Focus on the Next Right Step, Not the Whole Journey

One of the biggest traps we fall into is thinking we need to figure out the entire path before we make a move. But in reality, the next chapter of your life might not even resemble what you think it will. And that’s okay.

Instead of stressing over the end game, focus on what I like to call “the next right step.” What’s the one action you can take today, this week, or this month that moves you forward? Maybe it’s as simple as reconnecting with your network, starting that podcast you’ve been thinking about, or researching an industry you’re curious about. The point is to keep moving.

I’ve seen clients go from totally uncertain to laser-focused simply by focusing on that one next step. Don’t try to solve everything at once—it’s paralyzing. Keep it simple and keep it moving.

2. Embrace Experimentation

Now, I want to share a personal story with you. Right now, I’m in the middle of experimenting myself—testing new ideas, playing around with different content formats, and seeing what resonates. And let me tell you, not everything is going to work out. But that’s the point.

You’ve got to give yourself permission to experiment. Especially after a major career shift, it’s crucial to try things without the pressure of needing them to be perfect. Maybe you’re thinking about consulting, coaching, or investing in startups—try it out. Launch a pilot project, take on a small group of clients, or partner with someone you trust.

You’re never going to feel 100% ready. And that’s okay! Progress comes from action, not from waiting around for clarity.

3. Trust Your Intuition (Yes, Really)

I know, I know—intuition can sound a little fluffy, especially when you’ve built your career on data, results, and tangible outcomes. But the truth is, your gut feeling is more powerful than you think, particularly when you’ve spent years honing your expertise.

The thing about intuition is that it’s not random. It’s your brain’s way of synthesizing all your experiences, knowledge, and subconscious observations. If something feels off, or if a certain path lights you up, pay attention to that.

I once worked with a former CFO who wanted to pivot into executive coaching. On paper, it didn’t seem like the most natural fit. But his gut was telling him that’s where he could make the biggest impact. He trusted that instinct, and today he’s one of the top executive coaches in his niche, leveraging his financial expertise to help CEOs make smarter, more strategic decisions.

4. Seek Outside Perspectives, But Own Your Choices

It’s easy to get caught up in what others think you should do, especially when you’re feeling unsure. But here’s the thing: no one else has walked exactly in your shoes. Their advice can be valuable, but ultimately, the decision is yours.

When I transitioned from corporate to entrepreneurship, I got a lot of conflicting advice—some people told me to go all-in on personal branding, others said I should consult for corporates. It was overwhelming. In the end, I had to tune out the noise and figure out what felt aligned for me.

So seek out mentors, peers, and advisors—but don’t let their opinions cloud your own judgment. Use their insights as inputs, not directives.

Final Thoughts: Action in Uncertainty Leads to Clarity

If there’s one takeaway I want to leave you with today, it’s this: action creates clarity. When you’re navigating uncertainty, the worst thing you can do is stand still, waiting for the perfect moment to appear. Because it won’t.

Start small, experiment, trust your gut, and take that next right step—even if you’re not entirely sure where it’s going to lead. The clarity will come as you go.

Until next time—keep pushing boundaries, stay curious, and trust yourself.

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Navigating Uncertainty—How to Make Decisions When You Don’t Have a Clear Next Step